MIRI – The Miri City Council has begun seizing food packaging made of styrofoam, a harmful and polluting material that can cause cancer.
Mayor Adam Yii said the council has repeatedly advised companies not to sell such products and eatery operators not to use them.
The council banned the use of styrofoam products, particularly for use as food packaging, in 2017, he said, and has conducted educational campaigns on the dangers of the material.
“Styrofoam is made from styrene, which is a petroleum by-product. There is scientific evidence linking these products to cancer in humans,” he told a press conference here today.
“They are also harmful to the environment as they are not biodegradable and cannot be reused or recycled.
“They remain for years after disposal. Council personnel have seen a huge amount of styrofoam waste on the beaches and along rivers.
“Since the level of public compliance with our advice against using styrofoam is far from satisfactory, we are now going around seizing these products from suppliers and food sellers.”
He said enforcement officers are authorised to confiscate styrofoam goods “on the spot”.
The council is advocating and promoting the use of alternative packaging that is safer to humans and the environment, he added.
Yii said the council will find a safe and proper way to dispose of the styrofoam products seized. – The Vibes, April 28, 2021
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